New centrist party taps up donors, spinners... and Euan Blair

The former prime minister’s son was last seen at the 2015 Progress conference.

A few days after The Observer revealed plans for a new centrist political party, the quest to establish the key players continues.

The only money man named so far is LoveFilm founder Simon Franks. But The Guardian suggests that Innocent Drinks co-founder Richard Reed and Zoopla founder Alex Chesterman might also have opened their cheque books.

There should be no shortage of candidates for the role of chief spin doctor as two lobbyists and a public relations executive are also said to be involved, as well as a former political editor of a national newspaper.

And could a leader-in-waiting be Tony Blair’s oldest son?

The Guardian reports: "One person who was approached to join the fledgling organisation was told Euan Blair was on its board, and his father, the former Labour prime minister, had been helpful in recommending potential donors. Other sources confirmed Euan Blair’s name had been associated with the project."

While Tony has denied any involvement, Euan did not get back to the paper to confirm or deny being approached.

Either way, it is not the first time that his political credentials have been talked up. During the Cameron years, the former prime minister’s son was said to be keen on the Coventry North East seat held by Bob Ainsworth. But the seat went to Colleen Fletcher who now enjoys a healthy majority of 15.580.

In 2015, he also raised eyebrows – and cemented his moderate credentials - by making an appearance at annual Progress conference…